The role of mesenchymal stem cells in liver injury

Cell Biol Int. 2022 Apr;46(4):501-511. doi: 10.1002/cbin.11725. Epub 2022 Feb 17.

Abstract

Recently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has been suggested as an effective alternative approach for the treatment of hepatic diseases. MSCs have potential therapeutic value, because they have high self-renewal ability, are capable of multipotent differentiation, and have low immunogenicity. Furthermore, MSCs have the potential to differentiate into hepatocytes, and the therapeutic value exists in their immune-modulatory properties and secretion of trophic factors, such as growth factors and cytokines. Moreover, MSCs can suppress inflammatory responses, reduce hepatocyte apoptosis, increase hepatocyte regeneration, regress liver fibrosis, and enhance liver functionality.

Keywords: immunomodulatory; liver fibrosis; liver injury; mesenchymal stem cell.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation
  • Hepatocytes / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver Cirrhosis / pathology
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells*